Northwest Coast Model Wood Canoe With Figures, Vancouver Island or Olympic Peninsula

wood, paint.

Very good overall condition with typical wear.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This canoe accurately represents the salient features of a full-scale canoe that would be found along the southwest coast of Vancouver Island or the northwestern shore of the Olympic Peninsula. Canoes were a vital part of Northwest Coast culture for transport and hunting. For a related model with three figures, see Holm, 1983, p. 91, no. 154. For related carvings of human figures, identified as Nootka, see King, 1981, pls. 79-85. For the canoe as a spiritual metaphor within the Quinault culture see Wright, ed., 1991, p. 38.

Reference: Sotheby's New York, November 1999, lot 270.